
What is Astepro (azelastine hydrochloride)?
Astepro is a medication prescribed to treat the symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever) such as sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, and nasal itching.
Astepro belongs to the drug class of antihistamines. These types of medications work by blocking the chemical, histamine, in your body that causes allergy symptoms.
What are the Indications for Astepro?
Astepro is indicated for the relief of the symptoms of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults and children 6 years of age and older, and for the treatment of the symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis in adults and adolescents 12 years of age and older.
Vasomotor rhinitis is a non-allergic form of rhinitis that causes similar symptoms to allergic rhinitis, but it’s triggered by factors such as changes in temperature, humidity, or exposure to irritants like smoke or strong odors.
Astepro is not recommended if you are allergic to Astepro or any ingredients in Astepro.
How is Astepro used?
Storage
Astepro should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C), away from direct sunlight and heat. It’s important to keep the nasal spray bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Do not freeze Astepro, and do not store it in the bathroom or other humid areas, as excessive moisture can affect the medication’s effectiveness.
Keep Astepro out of reach of children and pets.
Instruction
Before using Astepro, prime the nasal bottle by spraying the air until you see a mist of medication.
Use Astepro as directed by your doctor, by spraying 1 to 2 sprays in each nostril, then slightly tilt your head forward to prevent the medication from dripping down your throat and causing a bitter taste.
Dosage
Astepro is available over-the-counter (OTC) and as a prescription. Astepro is available in nasal forms in the following prescription strengths: 0.1% and 0.15%. The 0.15% strength is available over-the-counter (OTC), while the 0.1% strength typically requires a prescription.
The recommended dosage is dependent on your diagnosis. If you are using Astepro for:
Allergic Rhinitis
For children aged 6 to 11 years old, the recommended dose is 1 spray in each nostril two times per day, not to exceed 2 sprays in each nostril within 24 hours.
For those 12 years or older, the recommended dose is 2 sprays in each nostril two times per day, not to exceed 4 sprays in each nostril within 24 hours.
Vasomotor Rhinitis
The recommended dose is 2 sprays in each nostril, two times per day.
Side Effects
It’s important to understand that although Astepro is FDA-approved, it comes with side effects that may or may not affect you.
Before starting Astepro, you should discuss possible side effects with your doctor or pharmacist.
Common Side Effects
Not all side effects require medical attention. As your body adjusts to Astepro, side effects may go away.
Tell your doctor if you experience the following symptoms, and they become severe or do not go away on their own:
- Drowsiness or feeling tired
- Dizziness
- Bitter taste or change in taste
- Headache
- Nosebleed
- Nasal discomfort or irritation
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
Serious Side Effects
Severe adverse reactions while using Astepro can occur. Seek emergency medical care or call 911 if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Severe allergic reaction: severe rash or itching, swelling in the face, lips, tongue, or throat, rapid heartbeat, fainting or dizziness, or problems breathing or swallowing.
- Irregular heartbeats
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Change in vision or eye pain
- Signs of nasal damage or irritation, including crusting, bleeding, or ulceration
- Signs of infection, including fever, chills, or persistent nasal discharge
The information above does not list all possible side effects. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you experience any side effects not listed. You or your doctor may report side effects to the FDA by calling 1-800-FDA-1088.
Warnings & Precautions
Before using Astepro, tell your doctor or pharmacist:
- If you are allergic to any medications, such as Astepro
- If you have severe liver impairment
- If you are pregnant or expect to become pregnant or conceive
- If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed
Drowsiness
Using Astepro can make you drowsy and less alert, reducing your ability to focus. Avoid activities such as operating heavy machinery or driving until you know how Astepro affects you. Additionally, avoid using Astepro with other medications that may also make you drowsy or drink alcohol.
Interactions & Contraindications
Before using Astepro, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take any medications, herbal supplements, or vitamins.
Sedative medications
Taking medications that cause drowsiness, such as sedatives or tranquilizers, may increase the sedative effects of Astepro. This may make you sleepier than normal. Consult with your doctor to determine if a change of therapy is needed.
Arrhythmia medications
Taking arrhythmia medications such as amiodarone, quinidine, and sotalol with Astepro may significantly increase the risk for QT prolongation or irregular heartbeats. Consult with your doctor to determine if a change of therapy is needed.
Use of other nasal sprays
Using Astepro with other nasal sprays, such as decongestants, may increase your risk of nasal dryness and irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer
Pharma Giant provides medical information to help you better understand medications and medical conditions.This content is for informational use only and does not replace advice from a licensed medical practitioner. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medication. All our partners follow strict safety standards set by their country’s health authorities to make sure you receive safe and high-quality medications.






